To celebrate 211 Broward’s 25th anniversary of providing crisis, health and human services support to the local community, the organization hosted its “Founding Helpline Heroes” event to recognize the community that has supported its services since its inception. Over 300 community leaders, volunteers and members of the nonprofit sector came together at the Westin in Fort Lauderdale Beach to enjoy an evening of cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, dancing and entertainment. Truist presented the event with Title Partner, the Roy Pollard Jr. Family Paying It Forward Fund. The crowd enjoyed a special performance by Emmy-nominated songwriter/performer Alexander Star, debuting his new original song, Just One Firefly (211 Anthem), which highlights the importance of 211 Broward’s critical services.
Since its founding, 211 Broward has answered nearly 3 million calls from residents struggling with various issues. Each year, the organization will select community members who have impacted 211 Broward and honor them as Helpline Heros. This year’s Founding Helpline Heroes were:
- Cindy Arenberg Seltzer, President & CEO of Children’s Services Council of Broward County
- John Benz, Community Leader and Past 211 Broward Board Chair
- Bob Birdsong, Founder & CEO of OK Generators and Past 211 Broward Board Chair
- Kathleen Cannon, President/CEO of United Way of Broward County
- Gregory Haile, Esq., President of Broward College and Past 211 Broward Board Chair
- Lynne Wines, Community Leader and Past 211 Broward Board Chair
